Two-phase orthodontic treatment involves two separate and distinct treatments. It allows your son or daughter to begin early treatment of bite and jaw problems, in order to reduce the dental issues he or she may experience later on.

Two-phase Orthodontic Treatment

Two-phase orthodontic treatment with Dr. Kyle Childers can improve how well the second phase of the treatment works and helps to make room for permanent teeth. Overall, two-phase treatment helps to position the teeth and the jaw for an attractive profile. Our team at Childers Orthodontics recommends that you bring your child to our Benton, Harrisburg or Herrin, IL office at the age of seven or eight, so that Dr. Kyle Childers can determine if early (Phase-One) treatment is necessary.

Phase-One

Phase-One orthodontic treatment is known as an early treatment. It begins shortly after your child’s first orthodontic examination, usually around age eight or nine. The main goal of Phase-One orthodontic treatment is to help make room for permanent teeth, which reduces crooked teeth as a result of overcrowding. It treats the jaw and bite growth; and issues like crossbite or underbite. This can reduce the need for your child to undergo extractions.

Phase-Two

Phase-Two orthodontic treatment is when braces are placed on the upper and/or lower teeth. The purpose is not just to correct spaces or misaligned teeth, but also to correct overbite or underbite concerns. Phase-Two usually begins around age 11 or 12, and the braces are worn for an average of two to three years, depending on your child’s unique needs. Some children have fewer issues and wear braces for little more than a year while others need them for up to four years.

Signs your child needs two-phase orthodontic treatment

If your child exhibits the following signs, he or she may be a good candidate for two-phase orthodontic treatment:

Losing baby teeth early, before five years of age

Problems with biting or chewing

Sucking the thumb after age five

Evidence of a crossbite, where the teeth don’t come together when opening or closing of the mouth

Teeth are crowded at age seven or eight

Protruding teeth on the top or bottom

Not all children need to have early treatment but if your child shows any of these signs, bring your child for an evaluation at Childers Orthodontics.